Hoops

Will NBL1 Budgets Change for 2021 Season?

Pretty stupid question really. Is that better?

No different than the NBL I am sure.

I’d better learn to read. :::)))

814
What? The question was about NBL1

We will find out on third of May when free agency opens, but there is some big name trying to get out there contracts.

We're in the off-season now and with a few missed opportunities and a stumbling Crocs franchise, there have been many threads of suggestions for the league. I think this external list from Michael DiFabrizio is worth a read. As he says, the theme is realistic, actionable changes rather than shutting down the league, changing season dramatically and so on.

I'm going to summarise the key points, but the whole thing is worth reading or at least skimming if you're lazy.

Start earlier - compete with AFL, but avoid other leagues
Finish earlier - avoid AFL
Ditch or move the All-Star Game - waste of resources considering TV ratings
More games around xmas/NYE - crowds are healthy
Boomers series post-season
Avoid simultaneous games - NBL competes with NBL
Avoid fixture gaps with regional games (more regional than our regional teams)
Double headers with the WNBL
General admin tickets behind the buckets - easier to organise groups
No music with lyrics during play - follow NBA's lead
Bring back 48 mins - higher scores, more stats
Play juniors games at half-time - better involvement
Xmas day games - no competition on TV

Full article

Later in the article, he mentions improvements in social media being needed and that goes without saying, and things like summits and fan forums which I think could well be a bit wayward.

A few like simultaneous games and juniors at half-time seem obvious, but aren't happening consistently.

The removal/relocation of the All-Star Game might be contentious, but I can see some merit. I find the dunk comp and three-point comps a bit bland to be honest. Michael suggests moving the Dunk Comp and Three-Point Comp to the pre-season. What about going further and making it a little more like a skills challenge or pre-draft workout. Get all players to run sprints, lift weights, put up 50 FTs or 50 3P. Rank everyone and make it a talking point during the season. "Rhys Carter, the fastest player in the NBL this year..." All the players are in one spot, so take advantage of that. Get up to date weights and heights even.

Maybe don't call it an All-Star Game (since it's pre-season), but an NBL Pre-Season Showcase. Pick the teams based on Pre-Season Blitz performances. Line the court with photographers and videographers to capture (and share with the league) as much good material as possible.

Have every player and coach submit their predictions for NBL awards and see who gets closest?

Have clubs submit trios for three-on-three comps and run games with experimental rules even.

On fan forums/summits, the NBL needs to cast the net wide for inspiration, but so many of the simplest changes are right there in front of them. Could do it online by inviting 20-30 fans/media/players/etc to submit ideas and then assess the best semi-privately. Do it after every season, as a tradition? What worked this year and what didn't? Can we produce a list of the major and minor changes worth considering?